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Somehow, in a world the place we crave the most recent gizmos and devices, the outdated world of the Mayans has been trending lately regardless of being right here method earlier than our time.
Their fascinating tradition and architectural marvels caught my eye, too, as I had simply visited some extremely preserved Mayan ruins in Copan Ruinas, Honduras, myself.
While there have not been any official Mayan ruins found within the U.S., there are some fascinating historic ruins attributed to our personal timelines that always go neglected.
And what higher backdrop whereas perusing remnants of our previous than pristine white sand alongside vibrant emerald inexperienced waters?
Rather than comply with the crowds to Miami, Orlando, and Siesta Key to your subsequent Florida getaway, escape to the hidden paradise of Fort Pickens this fall.
Dare We Say A ‘Poor Man’s Tulum’?
Home to lovely seashores and American antiquities, Fort Pickens is a uncommon sight to behold.
Often overshadowed by dozens of extra widespread Florida locations, this sliver of paradise on the very western tip of Pensacola’s Santa Rosa Island goes comparatively unnoticed until you are looking for it out.
In different phrases – it’s kind of off the crushed path, however not a treacherous journey and you will positively be rewarded regardless.
Boasting Caribbean-esque white sands and shimmering inexperienced waters, Fort Pickens is properly price a go to in the identical sense as Tulum, providing a novel mix of pure magnificence and charming historic websites.
No, there is no stylish arts scene, a model new airport, or divine Mexican meals, however the place else are you able to go to a pleasant U.S. seaside with such well-preserved ruins?
Answer: not many!
Perhaps South Carolina’s Fort Sumter or one other Florida counterpart, St. Augustine, nevertheless it’s secure to say Fort Pickens is subsequent degree!
It’s Okay To ‘Ruin’ Your Beach Vacation
Fort Pickens’ significance dates again properly over a century.
Serving as a well-liked landmark these days, its former glory continues to captivate guests with its scenic coastal views and intrigue.
What was as soon as a stronghold within the American Civil War, the grounds are nonetheless kempt and most buildings stay intact, making for superior photo-ops.
Fort Pickens’ job was to guard Santa Rosa Island all whereas stopping the enemy from infiltrating the bay and close by Navy yard.
The base covers roughly 200 acres, simply explorable earlier than or after time on the seaside. Today, it is overseen by the National Park Service, who ought to ask for a increase overlaying double obligation as each park rangers and tour guides.
Expect a walk-through of the remaining brick forts, a stroll alongside the barrier island, and even kayaking by way of the marsh.
It is probably not Chichen Itza, nevertheless it’s very spectacular nonetheless.
Unlike Gettysburg, do not count on tacky battlefield reenactments, despite the fact that The Battle of Santa Rosa Island came about right here in 1861.
Fort Pickens receives excessive reward on Google, holding an spectacular 4.8/5 score, the place one latest customer claimed, “…the fort is incredible. Great beaches too, much better than the packed public beach just down the road”.
Also, many who go to like to tough it by tenting underneath the celebs. Fort Pickens Campground holds 200 campsites solely charging $25 for admission along with the Gulf Islands National Seashore entry fees:
- $15 per particular person
- $20 per bike
- $25 per car
- $45 annual cross
A Blissful Beach Escape Away From Florida’s Typical Crowds
No resorts, no wild nightlife, no Disney characters – simply pure bliss alongside an genuine paradisal seaside.
Okay, the resorts would possibly be a pleasant contact, however in any other case, all of us love as a lot area as attainable on our seaside holidays.
Fall tends to see crowds shrink anyway, however Fort Pickens is rarely elbow-to-elbow like many coastal hotspots across the globe.
Here, you will discover soft white sand and many areas with no footprint. And better of all of the waters are clear and the climate is heat even in fall (suppose mid 70’s to 80’s)
Some Gulf seashores can turn into brown and murky, uninviting for a pleasant swim. That’s not the case right here.
In all chance, you will be driving right here from Pensacola.
Although, the Pensacola Bay City Ferry presents enjoyable weekend rides.
If driving, you will wish to enter Langdon Beach as your vacation spot since that is probably the most swimmable space, outfitted with ample parking, restrooms, and seaside showers.
Safety Tip: lifeguards are solely on obligation from May – September!
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This article initially appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed listed below are the creator’s alone, not these of any financial institution, bank card issuer, lodge, airline, or different entity. This content material has not been reviewed, authorized or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included inside the submit.
